Local attorney disbarred, another placed on probation

Mary D. Hansen was disbarred for failing to represent clients, according to The Florida Bar. Robert H. Zipperer will be publicly reprimanded and placed on probation for one year.

FRANK FERNANDEZSTAFF WRITER

A Port Orange attorney was disbarred and a Daytona Beach lawyer was placed on probation for one year, according to a news release Wednesday from The Florida Bar. Mary D. Hansen of Port Orange was disbarred effective immediately for failing to represent clients, according to The Florida Bar. Robert H. Zipperer of Daytona Beach will be publicly reprimanded and placed on probation for one year.In October 2010, Bradley Williamson hired Hansen in his civil case. Hansen "failed to complete any useful legal work" for Williamson, The Bar said. Hansen also did not respond to calls and emails from Williamson, The Bar said. The Florida Supreme Court disbarred Hansen this month and entered a judgment of $1,724 against her. Hansen had been the subject of prior disciplinary actions: a public reprimand in 2004; admonishment in 2005; a suspension in 2011; and a suspension with conditions in 2012.Zipperer failed to communicate adequately with his clients in three bankruptcy cases. He also failed to advise one of the clients of the consequences of a change in their case, according to The Bar. Zipperer's practice will be examined by The Florida Bar and he must implement its recommendations at his expense.Zipperer said the problems were caused in part because his office had been managed by his wife but then the couple divorced.